While the ocean covers about 71% of the Earth, people often seem to forget that only around 20% of the ocean has been mapped using sonar technology, and just 5% of it has actually been explored by humans. The vast and uncharted areas that remain are completely unbeknownst to us, and could contain any forms of marine life from undiscovered species to their habitats. Thus, the ocean encompasses critical information that could enhance our understanding of marine life; however, what remains in the ocean is an utter mystery. 

What is the Nippon Foundation-Nekton Ocean Census?

The Nippon Foundation Chairman Yohei Sasakawa (left) and Nekton Chair Rupert Grey (right) announcing the project launch at the Royal Institution of Great Britain (Source: The Nippon Foundation)

Recently, 866 new marine species have been discovered by scientists through the Ocean Census, a ten-year global mission that started in April 2023 with a goal to learn more about unknown species before they become extinct. The Ocean Census was formed by the Nippon Foundation and the Nekton Foundation, who both strive to identify at least 100,000 new species by the end of the ten year exploration. With a hope to protect as many of these species as possible, both foundations aim to raise awareness by making their research publicly available to anyone interested in studying the new species–scientists, students, and the general public.

New Species

Rhinobatos - Guitar Shark

Source: The Ocean Census

A new species of the guitar shark–belonging to the genus Rhinobatos–was discovered 400 meters off the coast of Mozambique and Tanzania by David Ebert, known as the “Lost Shark Guy.” This genus is one of the several within the broader Rhinobatidae family. The guitar shark is especially endangered, with only 38 species currently known to us, while two-thirds of their existence is threatened, showing us the importance of the Ocean Census’ mission.

Turridrupa Magnifica - Gastropod

Source: The Ocean Census

Off the coast of New Caledonia and Vanuatu, Dr. Peter Stahlschmidt of the University of Landau, Germany, recently discovered a marine gastropod at 200-500 meters deep. This type of gastropod, called a Turrid gastropod, contains venomous harpoons used to catch prey. These harpoons produce peptides–molecules formed by two or more amino acids–that may possibly relieve pain and treat cancer. Consequently, this highlights how marine species could have the potential to help us further develop our technological and medical advancements. 

New Octocoral

Source: The Ocean Census

A new octocoral was discovered in the Maldives by Aishath Sarah Hashim and Aminath Nasath Shanaan of the Maldives Marine Research Institute, and Asako K Matsumoto of the Chiba Institute of Technology. This genus is the first of its kind to be discovered in the Maldives, which highlights how much biodiversity remains to be discovered. As the name suggests, octocorals are named after their eight tentacles, and there are only five known species of the genus that this new octocoral belongs to. Additionally, octocorals are a crucial part of the underwater environment, as they contribute to reef stability, nutrient cycling, and are a popular habitat for several species of marine life such as marine worms and brittle stars. 

How will the Ocean Census perform the explorations?

Source: The Ocean Census

In order to fulfill the Ocean Census’ mission, researchers need to use several pieces of technology, including scuba diving equipment, submersibles, and remotely operated vehicles to search the ocean. In addition to being used for DNA sequencing,  using high resolution imaging helps to accelerate the pace at which scientists discover biodiversified areas. Additionally, the Ocean Census is carrying out joint explorations where they are working with research institutes, government agencies, and private sector companies to meet their goal.  

Conclusion

To some, the discovery of new species of marine life may not seem significant, but as these three examples show, new findings can lead to groundbreaking discoveries. This could have lasting impacts on our understanding of marine life, developments towards medicine, and the importance of protecting endangered species. As the Ocean Census continues to make more discoveries, it is important that we take time to appreciate the amazing marine life on Earth, despite most of it being undiscovered in the dark depths of the ocean.